13/08/2025
ACL Injury Rehabilitation Protocol
By Tonoy Modak
Diploma in Physiotherapy
Bachelor in Physiotherapy (In course)
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) stabilizes your knee joint. Injury may occur from sports, accidents, or sudden twisting. A structured rehabilitation plan is essential for recovery.
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Phase 1: Acute Phase (0–2 Weeks)
Goals: Reduce pain/swelling, protect healing, regain gentle motion.
Exercises:
Cryotherapy (10–15 min, 3–4 times/day)
Ankle pumps
Heel slides
Quadriceps setting (isometric)
Straight leg raise
Partial weight bearing with crutches as advised
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Phase 2: Early Rehab (2–6 Weeks)
Goals: Nearly full range of motion, improve muscle activation, increase weight bearing.
Exercises:
Stationary cycling (low resistance)
Straight leg raises
Mini squats (0–45°)
Step-ups (low height)
Single-leg standing balance
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Phase 3: Strength & Proprioception (6–12 Weeks)
Goals: Regain strength and knee stability.
Exercises:
Leg press (pain-free range)
Hamstring curls (light resistance)
Lateral step-ups
Side-lying hip abduction
Single-leg balance with ball toss
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Phase 4: Advanced Strengthening (3–6 Months)
Goals: Dynamic stability, sport readiness.
Exercises:
Plyometric drills (jumping, hopping)
Lunges (forward/lateral/walking)
Agility ladder drills
Resistance band lateral walks
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Phase 5: Return to Sport (6–9+ Months)
Goals: Full function and confidence, prevent re-injury.
Criteria:..
Pain-free, full range of motion
Strength ≥90% of other leg
Pass hop/agility tests
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✅ Progress varies per patient — follow physiotherapist & surgeon’s advice.
Physio home care BD
